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Voralpen Express Switzerland: Tips For An Unforgettable Journey

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Voralpen Express Switzerland: Tips For An Unforgettable Journey

One doesn’t need much for an unforgettable Voralpen Express trip. Voralpen Express is a railway line running between Lucerne and St. Gallen through the region of Prealps. Postcard-perfect views of the Swiss countryside are paired here with the rich cultural heritage of towns the train passes by.

In this article, we’re sharing our cultural highlights of the Voralpen Express line and tips on making this train journey as pleasant as possible. So, prepare for an unforgettable Voralpen Express trip: an immersive experience that blends heritage, gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes.

unforgettable Voralpen Express trip

Tips For An Unforgettable Voralpen Express Trip

Riding a Swiss train is always a pleasure: clean, quiet, and timely, they take you from A to B without any ado.

However, why not turn a commute into an exciting journey into the unknown?

These few tips will turn your journey into an unforgettable Voralpen Express trip:

  • Consider booking a first-class ticket. As a rule, the first class is less crowded and offers more comfortable seats. 
  • Sit on the right-hand side of the train in the direction of travel. Here, you will be able to enjoy fantastic views of Pilatus, Rigi, and other Alpine massifs in the distance. You will also have a chance to admire the Lake of Four Cantons and the southern leg of the Lake of Zurich. 
  • Don’t forget essentials like snacks, water, and a camera. You will want to take pictures along the way. Snack will help when you get peckish. Of course, yo can also enjoy a snack and a drink at the on-board restaurant. 
  • Check the train schedule for optimal daylight viewing.
  • Avoid rush hours for a relaxed journey. Late morning on a weekday and early morning on the weekend would be our choice.
lucerne old town

On the Voralpen Express Route: Lucerne

The route begins in Lucerne, one of the best-known Swiss cities. Located picturesquely on the lakeshore of Lake of Four Cantons, Lucerne boasts a long history reaching back to medieval times and a rich cultural offer. A city of music, art, and great gastronomic experiences, Lucerne is a great place to start any trip around Switzerland. It’s also close enough to the mountains to make for a perfect base for day trips to Engelberg, Mt. Pilatus, or a Mt. Rigi hike. ECHO Rails Tip: To have an unforgettable Voralpen Express trip, start with a touch of sightseeing and conquer one of the mountains surrounding the Lake Lucerne.
brief history of rigi cogwheel train

Arth-Goldau: Natural Landscapes and Mount Rigi

Located at the southern tip of the Lake of Zug, Arth-Goldau boasts a cozy atmosphere of a provincial town, equipped with splendid views of one of the most beloved Swiss mountains, Mout Rigi.

There’s an old cogwheel train that will take you conveniently to the summit, Rigi Kulm, where you can admire breathtaking views of central Switzerland. 

ECHO Rails Tip: For an unforgettable Voralpen Express trip, sit on the right-hand side of the train to enjoy the views of Mount rigi.

Rapperswil: Medieval Old Town And Rose Gardens

Rapperswil is situated on the northern, sunny shore of the Lake of Zurich and boasts a medieval castle and a vibrant old town. It’s also known to host one of the four world’s largest carillons, rose gardens, and Capuzin monastery.

While often overshadowed by more well-known Swiss cities, Rapperswil is definitely worth a stop-by. 

ECHO Rails Tip: Your unforgettable Voralpen Express trip should include a quick stopover in RTapperswil and a visit to The Polish Museum.

St. Gallen: Heritage, Artistry and Crafts

After a two-hour journey, your unforgettable Voralpen Express trip has ended: we are in St. Gallen. Historically, St. Gallen has been one of Switzerland’s most powerful and influential cities thanks to the Benedictine Abbey of St. Gall, which gave the city its name.

During 1000 years of its rule, the Abbey collected an immense collection of precious religious artifacts, and its 18th-century rococo library hosts a world-class collection of early manuscripts (including a John’s Gospel from 800 AD).

ECHO Rails Tip: St. Gallen, once a center of the textile industry, also boasts an interesting textile museum and its old town’s architecture is known for ornate bay windows.

travel partners

More Than Just A Trip

The Voralpen Express isn’t merely a mode of travel, it’s a ride to cultural discovery. Lucerne, Arth-Goldau, Rapperswil, and St. Gallen offer a blend of history, gastronomy, and breathtaking vistas. Following our tips you’ll ensure an optimal and enjoyable journey through these destinations.

During our 12-day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland we travel with the Voralpen Express from Lucerne to St. Gallen, to visit the monastic library. It’s a journey worth taking: the medieval city of St. Gallen and the impressive monastery make a long-lasting impression.

Are you curious to experience more of Switzerland? Then check our trips below.

a day on a glacier express

A Railway Thrill

Swiss trains aren’t just about reaching a destination; they’re about experiencing the journey itself.

We invite you to embark on an adventure through these remarkable railways, where every turn unveils a new chapter in Switzerland’s story.

Our 12-day Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland  embraces the variety of Swiss mountain cogwheel trains and offer incomparable adventures on 11 Swiss most scenic railways. 

This unforgettable journey will take you around Switzerland showcasing the most stunning Swiss scening rides such as:

  • Glacier Express
  • Bernina Express
  • Gornergrat Train
  • Jungfrau Railways
  • Rigi Cogwheel Train
  • Furka Steam Train

Climb up Gornergrat and Jungfraujoch and experience the best of Switzerland in one seamless adventure.

We prioritize your comfort – you will travel 1st class with convenient connecting times. We also organize dedicated luggage transfer so that you can travel light and simply enjoy the ride. 

Check for details below.

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